Page 178 of Closer

Sebastian slides into the seat beside me, his thigh pressing against mine beneath the table. “Miss me?”

I tilt my head, pretending to consider. “Hmmm. Maybe a little.”

He grins, pecking my cheek. “Just a little? Ouch, princess. You wound me.”

The orange fleck in his green eyes dances like a sunset behind a forest. Or maybe it’s a sunrise. A new beginning, a fresh start for us after all.

“Your ego can take it.” I bump my shoulder against his. “But maybe I missed you more than a little.”

“Yeah?” His voice drops, his eyes darkening. “Show me how much.”

My breath hitches, heat unfurling in my belly. “Sebastian.”

“Ugh, get a room, you two!” Gemma groans, lobbing a biscuit at Sebastian’s head. He catches it easily, taking a huge bite and grinning around the mouthful.

I take a moment to breathe. To soak in the warmth of the sun on my face, the laughter and chatter of my family in my ears.

This is happiness. This is peace. This is everything I’ve ever wanted and more.

And as I look around at the faces of the people I hold most dear, I know...

I’m finally home. And the man I love is right by my side.

Chapter 53

Epilogue Sebastian

Another long-ass day over. I shove open the door, my shoulders sagging under the weight of corporate bullshit and endless meetings.

But then it hits me. That scent. Warm, sweet, with a hint of chocolate. Lil’s baking.

The tension in my jaw eases, the knots in my shoulders uncoiling. This right here? Coming home to her? It’s the best damn part of my day.

I drop my keys on the side table, shrugging out of my suit jacket. “Princess, I’m home.”

Lil pokes her head around the corner, a smudge of flour on her cheek and a grin on her face. “In the kitchen!”

I lose my tie as I make my way over, drinking in the sight of her. Hair piled on top of her head in a messy bun, oversized t-shirt hanging off one shoulder, bare feet tapping along to whatever pop song is blasting from the speaker. Her face is flushed from the heat of the oven, a light sheen of sweat glistening on her brow.

She’s a fucking vision, even elbow-deep in batter.

“Hey, you.” I come up behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist and nuzzling into her neck. She smells like chocolate and home. “Whatcha making?”

She melts back against me, exposing her neck to give me better access. “Cupcakes. As always.”

I hum against her skin, placing a soft kiss there. “They smell amazing. As always.”

“They’re not done yet.” She swats at my hand as I reach for the mixing bowl. “Patience, mister.”

I chuckle, spinning her around to face me. “I missed you today.”

Her flour-covered hands come up to frame my face. “I missed you, too.” She gets on her tip-toes, pressing her lips to mine. Soft, sweet, perfect.

She tastes like chocolate chips. I could devour her right here, bend her over this counter, and—

The oven timer dings, and Lil tips back. “To be continued.”

I groan, reluctantly releasing her. “Tease.”

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